Are you planning a trip to the marvelous Loire Valley and looking for more details on which cities to visit? Let us guide you on why Saumur should definitely make it to your bucket list! From an impressive landscape where vineyard and Medieval architecture converge with the beautiful Loire river to Saumur wineries, let’s explore the best things to do!
Best things to do in Saumur, France
Situated at a convenient 2 hours train journey from Paris (get your tickets here), Saumur is a privileged destination on the Loire Wine Route. With its extraordinary history and grand castles, it has been drawing visitors for centuries to explore its famous cavalry school and vineyards. But what truly sets Saumur apart are the troglodyte caves – over 1,200 kilometers of underground galleries that today primarily house sparkling wine producers and mushroom farmers alike.
We recommend spending 1 or 2 days in Saumur to be sure to check out the top best sites and still have time to visit some of the best Loire valley wine tours.
Saumur Castle
Property of the Counts of Anjou and then of the Plantagenêts dynasty, the impressive castle was transformed into a royal fortress at the beginning of the 13th century. The architecture of the castle has a particularity: the double-revolution staircase which allowed nobles and servants to be able to go up and down in the same place without crossing each other. You can take it by accessing the belvedere in the south wing.
Located in the center of the city, you cannot miss it! It’s surely the best starting point for a great discovery of the city.
The Royal Abbey of Fontevraud
Beyond its captivating architecture, this building is also a vibrant cultural center, having served that purpose since 1975. It has hosted some of the most noteworthy art collections and exhibitions in history along with festivals and conferences for all to enjoy.
The famous Ackerman troglodyte cellars
Founded in 1811, Ackerman is the oldest House of fine bubbles in the Loire. You can taste both great gourmet vintages and more daring vintages. Embark on an educational journey punctuated by activities, tastings and exhibitions with a dynamic scenography, a festival of lights and a world of captivating aromas.
Ideal with friends or family, visiting the Ackerman cellars will allow you to explore the troglodyte cellars, dug into the tuffeau, the characteristic stone of the region. Book your visit to Ackerman quickly (free of charge and with free cancellation):
The Cavalry Museum
Step back in time, to 1445 and the formation of Charles VII’s Ordnance Companies, with a visit to Saumur Museum. Located on Place Charles de Foucauld at Manège de Saumur stables this historical site will provide an immersive experience as you explore each epic chapter that lead up to the French Cavalry of today!
Indulge yourself in a Loire Valley cruise
Experience an unforgettable excursion on the Loire, a royal river listed as a UNESCO world heritage site, in the heart of the Regional Natural Park and natural site protected by NATURA 2000. Sail on a guabarre, heritage boats and meet your captains Emilie or Vincent, wine merchant and Loire enthusiast since a young age. Bonus: During your cruise, you will be able to taste 2 vintages of wine! So, what are you waiting for? Book now!
What to do around Saumur?
Explore Loire Valley wineries
Immerse yourself in the heart of the region’s terroirs by enjoying privileged tastings in Saumur wineries and Loire Valley wine estates. The Loire Valley route, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, allows you to take several routes through the heart of the vineyards and cellars, between the Loire hillsides and picturesque estates. Discover Winalist’s interactive map to help you organize your trip.
Discover Loire Valley castles
Take advantage of your stay in Saumur to visit the famous Loire Valley castles, enough to keep you busy for several days!
The Château de Brézé, located 16 km from Saumur, is an old stately home made up of stables, a covered walkway, and a huge moat. This large Renaissance castle is complemented by neo-Gothic style architecture. With an exceptional underground heritage, the troglodyte cellars of the Château de Brézé are known as the “Château sous le Château”. With more than 100,000 visitors each year, the Château de Brézé is one of the must-sees in the region.
Very close to Saumur, the Château de Montsoreau (in the image above) built in the 1450s is a French castle in the Gothic and Renaissance style. The building is described as being between the fortified castle and the urban palace, and has the particularity of being the only castle in the Loire built directly on the bed of the river. We also recommend that you visit the village of Montsoreau which is classified among the “Most beautiful villages in France”.
Useful resources to visit Saumur
How to get to Saumur?
By car on highways, count 3 hours from Paris, 1h30 from Nantes, 45 minutes from Angers.
By train, Saumur is 2h20 from Paris and 1h15 from Nantes.
Where to eat in Saumur?
– Lunch on the go – On Place Saint Pierre, you will appreciate this little bistro as we like them: Le bistro Les Tontons. With a blackboard menu, we recommend the delicious charcuterie platter. In addition, the atmosphere is friendly and the prices are affordable. A nice place for a quick meal!
– Classic dinner: A simple and quite friendly brasserie not far from the Theater and the banks of the Loire. The Brasserie “Le 7” offers classic menus where you can taste different wines from the region. A great place to dine in the evening.
